“Progress is unattainable for a nation when elections become a source of controversy,” warns Shahid Khaqan Abbasi
Outside the anti-corruption department office in Rawalpindi, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, a seasoned politician and former Prime Minister, expressed concerns about the upcoming general elections scheduled for February 8. He emphasized that the current electoral scenario could lead the country into chaos.
Addressing the media, Abbasi stated, “It is the duty of the political leadership to give purpose to an election. Unfortunately, this election has lost its purpose. The political, military, and judicial leaders of the country should come together and chart the way forward.”
Abbasi, who appeared at the office for interrogation in a case related to alleged embezzlement in the Ghora Gali and Marri Road projects, stressed that Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja, Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, and caretaker Premier Anwaarul Haq Kakar must ensure that the upcoming elections remain “non-controversial.”
Expressing dissatisfaction with the state of affairs, Abbasi remarked, “With each passing day, I become more convinced that I made the right decision. I did not want to be part of an election that only breeds controversy and flaws.”
He emphasized the crucial role of political leaders in realizing that the progress of the country is hindered when elections become contentious. Abbasi expressed concerns about potential controversies surrounding the elections, citing alleged rigging in the 2018 elections and questioning the effectiveness of the system.
Critiquing the three major political parties in the country, Abbasi claimed they have failed to address critical issues, predicting the emergence of new political parties in Pakistan soon. Despite stepping away from electoral politics, he clarified that he has not completely abandoned politics and mentioned that a decision about forming a new political party would be made after the upcoming elections.
Abbasi also raised questions about the accountability of institutions like the National Accountability Board (NAB), labeling them as the country’s most corrupt organization. Stressing the decline in Pakistan’s development, he called for an uncontroversial election process, urging action before the situation worsens.